As the summer travel season approaches and the United States gears up for FIFA World Cup 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is urging international travelers to utilize enhanced technology and mobile tools to expedite their arrival into the country.
"CBP is committed to enhancing national security while streamlining lawful travel," stated CBP's Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino. "By leveraging advanced technologies and mobile applications, we are transforming inspections at airports into a seamless, touchless process, enabling faster risk identification and efficient processing of legitimate visitors."
The announcement was made at an event held at DFW Airport with representatives from DFW, American Airlines, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The upcoming FIFA World Cup is anticipated to be the largest ever, featuring 48 nations across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. The U.S. expects to host at least 6 million international visitors in 11 cities for this event.
In fiscal year 2024, CBP processed over 420 million travelers at ports of entry — marking a 6.6% increase from the previous year. As part of ongoing efforts to accommodate increased international travel, CBP continues to implement airport modernization enhancements aimed at optimizing resource allocation so officers can concentrate on higher-risk travelers in line with CBP’s national security mission.
One such enhancement is Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), which involves photographing travelers using auto capture technology for comprehensive customs assessment before they meet with a CBP officer. EPP is available for U.S. citizens at several major airports including Orlando International Airport (MCO), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN), among others.
Additionally, Seamless Border Entry combines Trusted Traveler Programs with “On the Move” technology allowing Global Entry members smoother passage through inspection processes with limited officer interaction as discretion permits. This service is offered at select airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Miami International Airport (MIA).
CBP also offers mobile applications designed to help streamline entry procedures into the U.S., accessible via Google Play Store or Apple App Store or by visiting the CBP Mobile Apps Directory.
Travelers are reminded by CBP that regardless of their chosen method of entry into the United States, they must fulfill legal requirements including having proper documentation and undergoing background checks. Violations may result in detention or removal as visas are privileges subject to adherence to legal terms.
For further information regarding visas and passports, individuals can visit travel.state.gov or access resources on CBP.gov’s Know Before You Go page.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection stands as America's largest law enforcement organization dedicated to border management while facilitating safe trade and travel essential for economic prosperity through innovative practices grounded in intelligence collaboration.
